Social Work (Integrative Social Work) (MSW)

The program of study that leads to the Master of Social Work degree with a specialization in Integrative Social Work (ISW) (also referred to as the “ISW MSW”) consists of a minimum of 48 units.

The basic generalist curriculum (typically completed in semesters one and two) introduces students to the range of social welfare problems and programs, and to the varieties of human behavior with which social work is concerned. At the same time, students learn the methods by which the social worker, the social agency and the organized community work with people and problems. Practicum education, under supervision in a social agency, is scheduled for two or three days per week for most students, enabling students to apply theory to practice. All content areas include content on diversity, social work values and ethics and economic justice and populations at risk. At the completion of foundation requirements, students are expected to have acquired a sense of professional responsibility and the ability to use knowledge on behalf of the individual, the group and the community.

Students complete their specialized coursework and training in integrative social work practice typically in semesters three and four of the ISW MSW curriculum. When completing their specialization, students may choose a sub-specialization by selecting a track that introduces them to practice with a particular client population, setting or system. If chosen, tracks are completed within the 48-unit, at minimum, ISW MSW curriculum.

The program is available at these locations:

• University Park Campus (campus-based and some online classes); some classes may be offered at City Center in downtown Los Angeles.
• San Diego Academic Center (off campus); some classes may be offered at University Park Campus or online. 
• Virtual Academic Center (VAC) (all online classes via the Internet).

The ISW MSW can be completed in a full-time program (four semesters) or a part-time/extended program (five or more semesters). Additionally, it can be completed in an advanced standing program (three semesters) or an accelerated program (two to three semesters).